Winter Wonderland for Kids (and Their Parents)

It’s the end of winter and we have only one conclusion: the Black Hills are magical in the winter. Moderate temperatures make it easy to get outside and enjoy the snow. Here were our favorites for winter wonderland fun for the whole family.

Before you go: Terry Peak offers terrain for all levels from beginner to advanced. You are able to rent everything you need for a day on the slopes right at Terry Peak. If you are interested in ski school or private lessons, stop there first to get your ski lesson, lift tickets and rental equipment (the lines are typically shorter but are reserved only for those in ski school or lessons). The ski school will accept reservations in advance except on holiday weekends. You must be able to check-in at least one hour in advance of your scheduled lesson. Terry Peak offers a discounted pass starting at noon.

What the Locals Know: If you are going to go to the mountain more than six days, get a season pass before October 31st to save a lot of money. Terry Peak accepts coolers so it’s easy to pack a lunch. You can either leave it in the car or rent a locker.

The main lodge is called Stewart Lodge. The ski school is located right next to Stewart Lodge. There is a second lodge called: Nevada Gulch Lodge. It usually has live music! You can buy lift tickets here too, but only if you’re comfortable with Blue runs.

After a hard day of skiing, grab a burger and a beer at Lewie’s. A local’s tradition!

Photo credit: http://terrypeak.com/TheMountain/Skiing

Snowshoeing at Eagle Cliff

Before you go: Eagle Cliff offers beautiful groomed trails cross country skiers. Those on snowshoes are allowed to follow the trail but must stay off of the groomed areas. We recommend starting at the Bratwurst Trailhead. There are trail maps at each Trailhead so you can choose your own adventure.

To get to the Bratwurst Trailhead, you will head south out of Lead on US Hwy 85. You will see the trailhead in 15 miles. If you are in Spearfish Canyon, turn right at Cheyenne Crossing and the trailhead will be 7.2 miles.

Snowmobiling

Before you go: The Black Hills offer expansive trails for snowmobiling. The tails are groomed from December 15th to March 31st. The Black Hills are listed as one of the top 10 places to snowmobile. Trail maps and daily conditions are available here, or by calling 800.445.3474. If you are bringing your own snowmobile, make certain it is licensed, or if it is unlicensed that you have the proper permit.

There are a lot of companies who will happily outfit you with everything you need for a day of snowmobiling including licenses/permits.

Roughlock Falls

Before you go: While it’s hard to believe it is possible, Roughlock Falls is more beautiful in the winter. This is an easy hike so everyone in the family should be able to join. It gets enough traffic that the snow gets packed down making it relatively easy to navigate, even without snowshoes. If it gets cold enough, the falls will freeze. Enchanting!